Col. Frederick Carter Newton

Carter Newton In Rockdale, Texas

Friday, October 14, 2011

This is a blast from the past, really. I was bored this afternoon and hunting on Yahoo this afternoon and for some reason remembered your dad and decided to look him up. I used to work with him at Global Marine. I found the website dedicated to his memory and was so sorry to learn that he passed away last year. I worked with him somewhere between 1974 – 1978!

The photos made me realize I had the right Carter Newton. I had to communicate to you.

I have to tell you this about your dad: He bought one of the first handheld electronic calculators for me which, then, cost a fortune, to help me with my work. He bought it for me, personally, so that I could do my work at home. I think he spent $100 on that calculator which, for me, was a fortune at the time (I was 23 years old then) but he did it out of the kindness of his heart, recognizing my need for one. I valued that calculator.

He used to take the stairs several flights up to get to our office every morning (the Contracts Department was not in the main Global Marine building on 7th and Flower but down 7th Street on the next block). He would always gently open the door, be all red in the face and panting, but his smile and good morning were like sunshine on a rainy day.

He was a genuinely nice man…why else, after 33 years, would I still remember the name of someone I worked with unless he made a huge impression. I really thought well of your dad.

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Dear Rick, I have been thinking about you and your Mom over the holiday season. The first Christmas without your Dad must have been difficult. Your Dad was all about family. That is how I remember him. I was at your Mom and Dad’s wedding. It’s odd that I can remember the occasion. It was surely the first wedding I ever attended. It turned out to be a good introduction to the whole solemn business of joining your life to that of another person. Your Mom and Dad had a remarkable companionate union—an example of sharing lives in the best possible ways. I wish I had been party to more of it. I remember visits in Boston, in California, and in Houston. You weren’t always there. Still, when your Mom was in the room, or when you or your siblings were in the room, nothing else mattered to your Dad. Your Dad never talked to me about his distinguished career. He always seemed to have projects—none more impressive that his collection of wine and everything that went with wine. Those projects centered on the home, and I always felt included in that magic circle. Maybe I learned from your Dad that however important the work, it has to be kept at a distance. Your Dad was fun. He was a gentleman. And even to this relative stranger, he made you want to be a better human being.

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Dear Pat,
Perhaps I should have shared these thoughts with your assembled family and friends, but I had reservations about talking too much about business on such an occassion.
As you may have heard from Carter, Jim Tanner gradually came to the opinion that Global had developed into an "industrial Camelot". That is, an environment in which all our people were valued by how well they played their position, rather than by rank. As nobody needs to tell you, that was entirely according to the way that Carter believed things should be. We eventually built a team which was second to none, a team on which each member believed that if you were good enough to play on the team, you were among the world's best at what you did, and performed accordingly.
What you would never have heard from Carter is that he was the rock, the cornerstone of the whole edifice. You heard Marion Wooley say that the best career decision he ever made "was to go to work with Carter", he did not say, "go to work with Global". Carter's solid, honest, 'no politics' ability to get results was a magnet for people like Marion. They were the high quality building blocks who came to be fitted around the cornerstone.
Eventually, that made it possible to attract people like Bill Thomas in the top financial job and Jack Ryan in the top legal job and Kyna as the receptionist and good, strong, honest people like them in every position on the team. Carter was our Roger Staubach, the brilliant spark plug who made the team believe in themselves, particularly when the going got tough.
As we both know, Carter's own personal strengths were legendary. However, it was your love and support and encouragement which enabled him to to be all that he was capable of being. Because all of us wanted to perform to Carter's standards, you enabled the whole team to be better than we otherwise would have been.
For that, I wish to extend to you my deepest gratitude. Thank you for sharing his precious time, attention and devotion, of which there can never be enough to go around, with all of us who were priveleged to work alongside him.
Sincerely,
Russ Luigs

Monday, September 27, 2010

Rick
I’m sorry for these circumstances as we thought so very much of your Dad and our cousin.

The service was very impressive and very deserving for your Dad. I’m sorry I missed the get together at Milano but Tinker really enjoyed it and the chance to visit with all of you.

Your Dad was an inspiration for me in my teen years and a hero and role model for me in years to come.
I will alwasys remember the Thanksgiving family reunion in Milano when your Dad, Roddy Newton and several others all showed up in their new uniforms and how proud we were of them.
We really do owe such a great debt of gratitude to them for their unselfish service to our country. Our loss is God”s gain!

Monday, September 20, 2010

Dear Kim,
So so sorry to hear about the Colonel’s passing. Am glad that you and the boys and your mom were able to be with him. Touches my heart that you played his favorite music. I am sure it gave me him peace having you all around him. I will pray for Carter Sr., and of course your mom. She’s such a great lady and has indeed been his tower of strength. Please tell her I am thinking of her and all of you at this sorrowful time. Your dad was and is a great man. Take care. Tell me if there is anything I can do. And tell "the Saint" I am always here for her.
Love, Ann

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

I have so many fond memories of your Dad. Those long ago when he would
come visit us at the Chi-O Sorority house during our infamous summer as well as
the phone calls over time. He had such a zest for life. I specially
enjoyed a recent call where he was preparing for Pat and his upcoming
Sangria party. I was impressed with the idea itself as well as the
energy level it took to make it happen. I think my fondest memory goes
back to 1976 where I visited him in his LA Global Marine office. I was a
youngster in the real estate business and was trying to talk him about
my capabilities, which didn't exist at the time. Rather than kicking me
out of his office (as I probably would have been thinking if I were him)
he was very courteous and engaging. He made me feel good about myself.
He possessed a unique ability to make people fell at ease. A rare
quality. I'll miss him.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

I just remember the visits that the F.C. Newton’s made in the summers as just being so darn much fun, partly because Pat and Carter were younger than my parents and partly because they had been so many places and done so many interesting things.

All three brothers (Boswell, Tip and Carter) were great story tellers and loved to tell tales about their childhood. To me, all the love and respect that passed between all of them was palatable.

Personally, I just thought Pat, Carter, and Ricky were the prettiest people I had ever seen and Pat could speak French of all things!

Sometimes the three families would go to the lake, the beach, or New Braunfels to ride the rapids. We three cousins were all near the same age (Eleanor, Rick and me). We played hard and fussed but it was great fun.

I will always remember Carter as being strong, brave, and with a twinkling in the eyes; he always had a kind word for all. He did set a high standard for all of us! He will be much missed and forever remembered as a strong and positive force in my life. Then add Pat to the mixture and the standard just got even higher, but I will continue to try to hold the course.

Thinking about Carter’s life which was as full of hardship as well as blessings, I just conclude that it was a life well lived!

I am planning a reunion in the near future, I hope to know Steven and Kim more!

Saturday, September 11, 2010

My name is Eleanor Newton. Carter was my uncle. His oldest brother, Boswell, was my father. My mom and dad lived in Rockdale all their lives. Carter went off to war, and Dad held the fort down in Texas, as did Tip, the middle son.

After the war, all three families had a child within three months of each other. (Nancy and I had older brothers). I don't remember the early years, though I have seen pictures, and everyone seemed pretty happy about the whole thing.

What I do remember was that every other summer or so, Carter, Pat and Rick came to Rockdale to stay for a few weeks. I suppose it depended on where they were stationed as to how long they could stay and in what conveyance they arrived. I definitely remember the RV (which was called something else at the time). And I remember Chief, the handsome boxer who slobbered.

A few times we all gathered up at Camp Wernicke in New Braunfels Texas. Each family had a cabin, and we all hung out together on the porches. We ate together, played cards together, and told stories together. My dad was as good a story teller as Carter, and so it was always entertaining. The main attraction for the kids, however, was the river, which was cold and wide and just right for raft rides, swimming, and jumping off ropes into the water. I remember Carter coming in with us and playing with us. I thought he was wonderful- no other parent, except Pat, would come near the water.

All of this adds up to a truly idyllic 1950s picture. We relaxed and had fun when the Carter Newtons came to town. I knew Carter was in the Air Force but only saw him in uniform one or two times my whole life (until Nancy and I went with them to San Bernadino when we were in high school). I’m not sure I even knew what he did.-whether he flew planes or had a desk job…or both. I do know that my dad was really proud of him, and that meant a lot to me. In fact, when it first came time to think about colleges I wanted to apply to the Air Force Academy because of Carter. Only I was not eligible. The Academy didn’t admit women for another ten years. And A&M didn’t accept women in the Corps. I went to the University of Texas.

I will miss knowing Carter is in this world. In my adult years I didn’t see him much. I regret that. But somehow I always knew he was there. And I knew if anything ever went terribly wrong, if I really needed something, and if I asked, he and Pat would be by my side in a heartbeat. He was a family man. I could depend on him.

Now it is time that Rick, Nancy, and I take over as the senior members of the next generation (our older brothers are deceased). They are big shoes to fill.

"This is Charlie Trotter. I read the obituary today. You won't know who I am. but I played football with you daddy in Rockdale.

He was two years older than me, I was a country boy, but he was a city boy. It didn't matter, he was nice to everyone. We never saw anyone so handsome and also such a good football player. And he never got angry at anyone, not at school and not on the field. I never saw him insult a man. Everybody in Rockdale felt the same way, we all liked him, I know if they hear he has passed, they will all feel like I do: your daddy was something special. I cant come to his funeral because my wife is sick and we are old now. But I wish I could, your daddy was a good man, he was a Texas man. I know he was in the war, so was I; I was a signalman on an LST in the Pacific.

This makes me sad and I cant talk about it anymore. Tell your mother we are all sorry for her. Thank you."

Barbara and I were so priviledged to know Carter, Pat , Carter Jr. , Steve and Kim. Carter was a gentleman's "gentleman". Great patriot, great family man, great executive--a rock.

We had some great trips. We went to Paris to the Tour d'Argent for Bill Thomas's birthday several years in a row. With Carter, you always worked as well, so we would call on Total, Elf, etc. We also had a great trip to China in about 1980.

The memorial site is so fitting--says it all about your Dad and family.

He is in Heaven! We send our deepest condolences to his family that will miss him on earth.

Carter and Mary, We were so saddened to hear about your father. I know you have been very concerned for years and you have tried to help him to receive the best care that you offered all your patients. The website you set up was really touching and informative for us to read . What a guy! He should rest well knowing the legacy he left behind. We hope and pray your Mom is doing as well as possible. Please ccept our condolences and sympathy.

Friday, September 10, 2010

Well, well well. Carter, Dr. Fig, my long time and old friend. My heart weeps for you and your family. It looks like you are a loving family and you are an AF Brat that makes you "specialer" to us. I only wish I could have had a day or two with your Dad to get him to sign my book, "Greatest Generation" and a B-17 crewman to boot. Great plane, horrible mission and bad survivability numbers.

We really need to talk. I hope you can come to the ranch with Mary and just hang out with us. Drink a pop and talk about how blest we are to have the draw of parents we got.

We will pray for you and you family. I presume you Mom is surviving and coping OK. Always tough. My Dad died 10 years ago and I think about him frequently and think, "I'll call Dad." No, I won't, Verizon doesn't go that far.

I can just tell from the pictures what an amazing guy your Dad was. We are so lucky that people like him had the fortitude and bravery to go all over the world protecting and defending the very freedoms we all still enjoy today. If not for people like your Dad, we might be living under some ruthless dictatorship, in what was formerly known as the USA. Please accept our condolences on the loss of Carter Sr., and kindly pass them along to your Mom and family. Looks like he had a very full and adventurous life surrounded by a wonderful family and a loyal group of lifelong friends. You are very fortunate to have had him for all the time you did.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Please accept our deepest sympathy and heartfelt thoughts. It was a pleasure to read about your father and see his photos. He was an amazing man, and his memory will surely live on. If you need anything remember we are only a phone call away.
Sincerely,
Ben and Christina Strong

Sally and I are sorry to hear of the loss of your Dad. From experience I know it is never the right time, even if expected. I can promise that as long as you remember your Dad he will be with you, perhaps even more than when he was here. I remember your Dad in his prime, at least to a 10 year old that is how it seemed. No doubt he was in his prime most of his life. I do remember that hike he took us on. What a great adventure and he was well prepared to totally wear out 3 or 4 ten year olds, plus a dog, in the process, single handed. Quite an accomplishment!

Although we only had a short time together in San Bernardino about 50+ years ago, that time made an impression that I still have today. Your Mom and Dad are a part of that, and it's all good.

We wish the best to you and your mother and our sincere sympathies, and we hope to see you and Mary again soon.

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Carter and Pat were out to visit LA to check on their eldest child, and presumably to keep on the straight and narrow. Rick was the senior member of our cardiology group, and the Newton's came out to stay at his hilltop luxury home for Christmas. They enjoyed the nice views, the open spaces overlooking the canyon below, and were happy for Rick's success. What was so impressive about Pat and Carter was that they were most content being just Mom and Dad. They had no pretense about wanting to impress anyone, jump into the fast life of the city, or make sure they made the rounds as tourists. We met them at dinner and they just wanted to talk about young Rick growing up, his young brother and sister, and life on the Air Force bases. Rick was clearly just their kid, and it was obvious that they just loved him for being a good son, so much more than being impressed by any of his accomplishments. They talked about their challenging life of moving wherever and whenever the military deemed it necessary, but there was never a hint that this even made them break stride. Carter and Pat reminisced about the experience as if it were a first class Cruise around the Mediterranean. If it was difficult to manage on a military salary, pack up and move every year or two, make new friends at every stop (and certainly it had to be), they somehow seemed to have embraced these challenges with a welcoming smile and an inner confidence that filled the room.

Carter would grumble about things, but usually only when him son wouldn't listen. Quotes like:

"you're awfully loose with your finances."

"why don't you get rid of that jeep."

"are you going to church at all?"

"no I won't come down and do a damn treadmill test at your office"

"I am busy installing a ceiling fan, so don't bother me"

No matter what else, he was always just a Dad. His perspective was always so grounded, so constant, so reliable, and why not be opinionated? He earned that right.

In recent times, deserved attention is being directed upon Carter and Pat's generation for their contributions, with acknowledgment as "the Greatest Generation." It must be stated that it was the Carter and Pat Newton's in the crowd, who made it so. They grew up in the depression, the "dirty thirties." Their young adult years were spent in the Wartime. While the women minded the homes, factories, businesses, schools and kept the country going, the men fought the war. Heroism, sacrifice and selflessness became routine, ordinary days for these giants. We can never say enough about how they saved the Free World and it's great democracies from Fascism and tyranny. They shrugged that off, and then proceeded to build the modern America. Some talked constantly and reminisced of their roles in the war. Not Carter and Pat, they moved on. It was time to get on with work, raising a family, building a community. They never looked for any special recognition, just an opportunity to be part of the dream. They clearly showed that they enjoyed the journey as much as the results, even if Carter had to grumble at his kids a bit to keep them in line. Hey, someone had to do it.

Please accept my deepest condolences. While I unfortunately never had the pleasure of meeting Carter Senior, I have had the unique blessing of getting to know both of you over the past years (my life will forever be enriched for it). Hearing you speak of your father, even during the decline of his health and now reading more about his full life, it is clear where you were instilled with such good qualities. Carter, I don’t imagine any words can dull the loss of a father, but I would like to tell you that I don’t expect in my life to have the blessing of meeting too many people like you (and Mary). You have been a selfless mentor in helping me in my young career, you have been like a big brother with solid encouragement and guidance when I have needed it in my personal life, and you and Mary have welcomed me into your home and we have broken bread many times; I consider you both family in the truest sense of the word. I know that Carter Senior must have had nothing but pride and love for you both and his love is sure to continue as he now looks down from above upon all of his loved ones here on earth.

From my entire family (mom, dad, Joe, Mike, and Andy) to yours; we love you and Mary very much and we will toast to good man that served God, his Family, and his Country proudly when we see each other next!

Marsha and I wish to extend our most sincere condolences at the recent passing of your father. I did met him when I was staying with you in Santa Monica in the late 1980's just before he retired and he was a great guy. Carter Newton raised a wonderful son and he was very proud of you and I am VERY PROUD to be your friend. I know we each have been very busy in the day to day lives we have made for ourselves but I miss your humor, laughter and worldly insights. Oh yes, I also miss the English tea and bike mountain rides not to mention watching your golfing acumen.

Please know that you and your father have always had a special place in my heart. I miss you and have said a prayer for both your mom and dad.

Dear my friend,
I'm so sorry to hear the news of your father's passing I've met him and I remember although in a small time, as a very special person with a great personality and I know how much you was near to him.
I've seen that he had a great past of honor and integrity and I think you will miss him a lot.
We use to say in Italy …" we realize that we are getting older when your friend's parents are passing and we realize that we are old when pass your friends…" we are never prepared to these events…….

It's not so easy have a parent's loss and very difficult to tell you something for comfort for you.
I'm really near to you my friend, even many miles far we are …
You and your family are in our thoughts.
A great hug to you and Mary from me, Gemma and Pier Edoardo
Ciao
Paolo your buddy friend

I have known your father for a short period of time but I know now more about wine, airplanes and you guys during that time. I am very thankful to be a part of your family and my condolences goes out to you.

Carter and Mary,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you both in this difficult time.
I remember your father and mother well from the few times we met and always enjoyed hearing about them from you.
He truly was a member of the Greatest Generation and reflected well all of the best characteristics that have helped to make us who we are in this country. He will be missed and long remembered.
I know you will be a great source of support and love for your mother in her time of grief. Please give her our deepest sympathies.
With greatest respect and love,
Jim and Lyn

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Our hearts break for you and your dear family. And because we care so, we feel your sadness keenly. I hope you can actually feel our love and concern for you; all the prayers said for precious Carter for such a log timewere so sincere. But God's will was to take him last week....and oh how I wish I had visited him more often! We treasure an avalanche of tender memories: dozens of restaurants we enjoyed together and the fun we had at Port Oconnor with Carter at the helm of the boat. His delight in driving the boat, at my jokes (I know they are weak sometime), and a thousand other thoughts....we will remember them forever.
I cant know what to say really so I want you tho have this poem that my sister composed. It says what I am trying to tell you.

If I could wrap my love around your heart, grief-sore with pain,There'd be enough, I know there wouldTo make life good again.

But human love won't always doAll the things we want it to,So I'll ask our heavenly FatherTo stay right close to you.

May he bring you peace and comfortOpen free you thoughts from careleaving only treasured memoriesOf your Carter there.

Carter, Mary and Family
You are in our prayers and we wish you peace and understanding. May you all cherish and share your fond memories. You will find comfort in knowing that your dad will live forever in the presence of God.
Jerry and Dianne

Dear Carter, Mary and Family:
So sorry to hear the news of your father's passing. I am happy that you could be there with him and am happy as Johnny noted that your Dad will be sharing time with all the loved ones that have gone before us. Our prayers are with you all and though won't be present for the celebration of his life, know that our hearts will be there.
Love from Eddie and Sherri

Mark and I were so sad to hear of Carter's passing. He was such a wonderful man

who we would have loved to have as a father. He was a dedicated husband to the

love-of-his-life Pat, a devoted father to Carter, Steve and Kim, and a loyal friend to many. He was a man of tremendous honor and integrity. He lived a life "well-lived"! He will always be remembered as a very special person and he will be missed by us all. Our love and prayers are with you!

So sorry to hear tonight about your dad's passing. Thanks for sharing the blog about him. We should all lead such a full and interesting life! We only met your dad once at your wedding, but I remember a comment from a longtime friend of yours who said that out of respect, as long as he knew him, he always called your dad Colonel Newton. After reading many of the comments on the blog, I understand why he was so worthy of that respect. Our thoughts are with all of you.
Matt

Matt just told me that your father passed away. I am so sorry. I didn't get the blog but Matt will forward to me. He said it was a beautiful tribute to him. We hope your Dad has found some peace as I know he has been ill for a long time.
And know you will find comfort in knowing that you were a great son and you can't look back and say, I wish I would have done this or that. It sounds like you were always there for him and he will still be there for you.
Love to you both.

Oh Carter, we so sorry to hear of your Dad passing. No matter how old we are we are never prepared to say say goodbye to our parents. We didn't know your Dad but we know he and your Mom must be great since they raised you!!!! We will be here when you and Mary get back to Tucson, we miss you. Our love and prayers to your whole family.

Carter, we are so sorry to learn about your dad’s passing, it’s not easy to lose a parent. I try to remember all the good times we had together and the positive influence they had on our lives. I am sure that your father was a very proud man having you as a son. I hope to see you guys soon, my best to Mary too.

Oh, Pat, I know you will miss him sorely, as will Carter and Mary, Kim and Barry. You were the love of his life and you raised such a special family together. How proud he was of his family past and present and what enjoyment and satisfaction he took in his extensive research of family history ensuring the memories he treasured would be passed on to all of you in concrete form. All those wonderful family photographs and stories of the adventures you all shared he recorded and when I visited I, too, was able ro read them and look through at all of you as well as those who went before you who played their part in shaping Texas history. We feel very blessed that our families came together through Carter and Mary and you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Peg and the McCanns

This is a man I and others will truly miss. He was always available to me as a friend and mentor. I had the privilege of working for him at Global Marine. At a very young age, Carter sent me and other men around the world negotiating drilling contracts and otherwise conducting business for the Company. It seemed like I was gone forever. If I got lost in a negotiation or business function, he was always available day or night to get me back on the right path. The thing about Carter is that you wanted to work for him, and you wanted to do the very best you could do. To disappoint him was just not imaginable. There were some times I thought I could have done better, he just laughed, talked to me about it, and sent me back out. Later I moved into the same neighborhodd of Fleetwood where Pat and Carter lived. Got to see more of Pat and Carter. It was, and is, a privilege to know them both. Had a bottle or two from Carter's fine wine collection. Pat, if there is anything I can help with, please call.

Monday, September 6, 2010

I am touched by this memorial to Carter. You have been blessed to have been loved by so many and to have been together so long with such a lovely family. Thank you for all you and Carter have done for Fleetwood. Much love during this time of transition.

Dear Pat, We were saddened to hear of Carter’s passing. We’ll always remember him as a gracious man with a great smile. We loved being in the Fleetwood Dinner Club with you and Carter. He had so many great stories to share. We send hugs to you and your children.

Carter and Mary, we just read the obituary about your father. Awesome man. He did so much for his country and family. You all should be very proud to have a father like that. We want you to know how sorry we are for your loss. We know your father is finally "home" with our father in heaven. Hope the next couple of days bring you peace and love from all the family and friends that will be with you. You all are in our prayers and thoughts. God bless you . Love, Mark and Cindy

We were deeply saddened to learn of Carter's passing. As neighbors and friends I can tell you that no couple was more sought after as dinner companions in our subdivision than Carter and Pat. Their style, graciousness, love of life, and interest in others made them welcome guests and superb hosts. Carter will be sorely missed, his kind are not replaceable. We pray for comfort for you and Pat, Kim, and Steve.

Dear Kim
So sorry to hear about your father's passing. Though I never met him, I still feel like I knew "The Colonel." I'm glad he got to know Oscar, and Oscar got to know him. Our best to your entire family. If there's anything you need us to do for you here, you know we're here for you. When I think of Texas, I think of your Dad.
Love,
M

The final goodbyes are the hardest and most difficult. No matter how prepared we think we are, we are never quite prepared for the final curtain call. It still cuts us to the core and makes our hearts ache with sorrow. Mr. Newton, you now depart on a new journey. I will always remember that you left large footprints in your work, in your life and mostly, your family. And what an amazing family you have.

Saturday, September 4, 2010

We are so very sorry to hear about the passing of Carter's father. These events are never ever easy no matter how prepared we think we are. We are thinking of you both and sending hugs. Everything is ok with Boomer. We hiked with Maurene and Marvin and the 4 dogs yesterday out Lake Creek along the river. They had a blast swimming and fetching sticks, everyone got along well. Please give Carter our sympathies and let us know if there is anything we can do for you. Take care of your selves along the way too, these things get stressful and emotionally exhausting

I enjoy life more than other men.
I look up and see more than they,
I know how the clouds --- feel,
And, what it is like
To have beautiful blue all around me, and them.
To actually look down onto my fellow travelers
of this heaven, the birds of the sky.
To sense their freedom along with mine
As I escape earth's bounds on my very own ethereal wings.
Who but I can soar up there near God,
Can climb, then, tumble childlike,
through billowing clouds?
Who else has ever seen, or will ever see,
These very same unclimbed peaks,
The beauty of a rainbow's secret hiding place?
Only those so blessed can know
The real reason why birds sing.
Becauuse I fly, I envy no man on earth......

This is dedicated to my best friend and fellow ex-warrier, Col. Carter Newton, who on this day, August 31. 2010, took his final flight. This time, all the way through and past his heavenly landscape, to be with God. Have a safe flight my friend....Bob MacKinnon, Lt. Col. USAF (ret)

I just finished reading through the blog, and really enjoyed learning many things about Col. Newton that I had never known...what a great idea to have this site as a place for people to share their memories about Col Newton!

Most of my memories of Col. Newton come from when I was a four-year-old boy, which was my age when his family and mine lived in Biloxi, Mississippi. But I can clearly remember going on a fishing boat out into the Gulf of Mexico, when my brother, Charlie, was about 2 years old. Suddenly, all four parents, (Col and Mrs Newton; and my parents, Col. and Mrs. Beam), hooked four fish from a school of Lemon Fish, all at the same time! As was so typical of their enthusiasm and zest for life, all four were screaming with delight and excitement, and just loving the moment! The only problem was, that as 2- and 4-year old kids, my brother and I had no idea what was going on, but were convinced something was terribly wrong with our parents! After all four fish were successfully reeled in, they noticed us standing there in the middle of the boat, crying our eyes out!! (We were quickly assured that everything was OK!) But as I've remembered that event in recent years, it just gave me that much more appreciation for the four of them, to have witnessed what fun-loving, happy, adventurous people they were. Their friendship and memories of their times together have lasted all their lives.

Another gauge of Col. and Mrs. Newton's character, is by observing their kids. Their son, Rick (Carter Jr.) has been a life-long friend of mine, but one of the earliest memories I have of him was when Rick (about 10 years old at the time), found my brother and me digging a hole in the garden in our front yard. He asked us what we were doing, and we told him we were digging for buried treasure. He left for a few minutes, then came back to our Big Dig. He distracted us somehow, (not too hard to do to a 2- and 4-year-old!), and while we were looking away, he dropped a bunch of nickels, dimes, and quarters into the hole, and covered them with a little dirt. When we resumed our digging, we soon found our buried treasure!!

The Newtons are a wonderful family, who have touched everyone they've known with their kindness, generosity, and joy for life. May they be comforted by all the wonderful memories, and by the knowledge that they will all be reunited in the eternal life that is their destiny

I'm so sorry. Please give Carter, Pat, Barry and Kim my love. I will keep all of you in my prayers. I am sure he is finally resting peacefully but it is still hard on those left behind. Love to you all.

Mare, I'm so sorry for Carter and his mother. I do think he will find peace in his after life . I know how close he was to his dad and the loss is so hard. I think hugging will help and so do long walks with Boomer.My prayers are with you and all of the Newton's.
love you two and miss you meghan

We are so sad to learn of your dad’s passing. I know he was such a big part of your lives and an all around wonderful man. The three of you and your mom will miss him terribly.
How great to have had such a meaningful life! To be remembered fondly by those, like us, who barely knew him and to be so loved by those closest to him. We send you our fondest thoughts and hold you close in our hearts during this time.

Friday, September 3, 2010

Dear Mrs Newton,
This is John Hall's son Aaron. I recently heard of the loss of your husband and I wanted you to know that you and your family are in our thoughts. I know Col. Newton will be fondly remembered. Love Emily and Aaron Hall

I have thought and thought and I don't know if I can find the words that could possibly describe Carter. He was just an "Original".

Harry and I met your Mom, Pat, and your Dad about ten years ago. We had just moved into the neighborhood. We immediately were taken with them. What an absolutely lovely couple!! We became friends almost immediately.

Your parents have lived such a unusual and fantastic life together. Hard at times, I am sure, but they both enjoy an adventure. Goodness, did they ever have one. We never stopped enjoying your Dad's stories.

He always had a project going and it was always something that was of interest. He was an authority on Texas History and his stories about his Dad kept us all enthralled.

He loved to entertain and share his wonderful collection of wine. Everyone that was fortunate enough to be a guest in their home came away with stories to tell their friends and family.

He had a adventure while he was here in this life. I am sure that he is already planning another adventure in Heaven. Don't you know that he has the Angels in a Whirl.

Our sympathies are extended to the family of Colonel Newton. Our memories of France and NATO will live on knowing that the Colonel played a constructive part in preserving peace for our children and the free world. I have proudly posted his obituary on the Fountainbleau Veterans Association:

Colonel Newton was an outstanding American who served his country with honor. I knew him as a youngster in Fontainebleau, France. He was stationed at Headquarters, Allied Air Forces Central Europe, as was my father. Our families had many good times together. He was known there as a dedicated, selfless, intelligent, energetic, and courageous officer. These traits are typical of how he was all his life. Colonel Newton was also a man who took his family responsibilities seriously and loved his wife, children, and grandchild immensely. He was a great American and Texan. People like him are the reason for the term, "greatest generation of Americans."

We are so sorry to learn of your dad's passing. It's tough to lose your dad. From all accounts he was a very special person and a fine officer who served our country well. God bless him and God bless you and your family during this sad time.

Thursday, September 2, 2010

I just spoke with John who informed me that your father passed away. I wish you
and Mary my best. I'm well aware that losing a parent is a major transition.
It was certainly very important to your father and family that you were there
for him during all his complications.
(Impressive to the rest of us)

When we visited in Sun Valley your comments about his condition perhaps
foreshadowed this, however it still came as a surprise. I tried to find his
obituary, but without success. Most likely I was looking in the wrong place.
When you have time please send it to me. Also, at some point I
would like to know if a memorial has been established.

I'll talk to you later when I get to SV in a week or so - if not before.

I'm so sorry to hear of your father's passing. I regret to say I didn't know Col. Newton very well, but he was always talked about with the greatest esteem, and I know how much he meant to my father. I wish there was something I could say or do to help you through this time, but for now sending my love and prayers will have to do. Though you'll be together in sadness, I hope you can take some comfort from the time with the rest of your family. Please know you're in my thoughts.
Love,
Tiffany

Please convey my heartfelt condolences to your mother Pat, to Kim, to Barry and to the rest of your extended family and friends over the passing of your dad this week. His long life gave us all much to admire, and my wife and I are thankful to have enjoyed some time with him. Some impressions of him are worth sharing and at the risk of being too sentimental, I will try.

Carter and Pat were out to visit LA to check on their eldest child, and presumably to keep on the straight and narrow. Rick was the senior member of our cardiology group, and the Newton's came out to stay at his hilltop luxury home for Christmas. They enjoyed the nice views, the open spaces overlooking the canyon below, and were happy for Rick's success. What was so impressive about Pat and Carter was that they were most content being just Mom and Dad. They had no pretense about wanting to impress anyone, jump into the fast life of the city, or make sure they made the rounds as tourists. We met them at dinner and they just wanted to talk about young Rick growing up, his young brother and sister, and life on the Air Force bases. Rick was clearly just their kid, and it was obvious that they just loved him for being a good son, so much more than being impressed by any of his accomplishments. They talked about their challenging life of moving wherever and whenever the military deemed it necessary, but there was never a hint that this even made them break stride. Carter and Pat reminisced about the experience as if it were a first class Cruise around the Mediterranean. If it was difficult to manage on a military salary, pack up and move every year or two, make new friends at every stop (and certainly it had to be), they somehow seemed to have embraced these challenges with a welcoming smile and an inner confidence that filled the room.

Carter would grumble about things, but usually only when him son wouldn't listen. Quotes like:

"you're awfully loose with your finances."

"why don't you get rid of that jeep."

"are you going to church at all?"

"no I won't come down and do a damn treadmill test at your office"

"I am busy installing a ceiling fan, so don't bother me"

No matter what else, he was always just a Dad. His perspective was always so grounded, so constant, so reliable, and why not be opinionated? He earned that right.

In recent times, deserved attention is being directed upon Carter and Pat's generation for their contributions, with acknowledgement as "the Greatest Generation." It must be stated that it was the Carter and Pat Newton's in the crowd, who made it so. They grew up in the depression, the "dirty thirties." Their young adult years were spent in the Wartime. While the women minded the homes, factories, businesses, schools and kept the country going, the men fought the war. Heroism, sacrifice and selflessness became routine, ordinary days for these giants. We can never say enough about how they saved the Free World and it's great democracies from Fascism and tyranny. They shrugged that off, and then proceeded to build the modern America. Some talked constantly and reminisced of their roles in the war. Not Carter and Pat, they moved on. It was time to get on with work, raising a family, building a community. They never looked for any special recognition, just an opportunity to be part of the dream. They clearly showed that they enjoyed the journey as much as the results, even if Carter had to grumble at his kids a bit to keep them in line. Hey, someone had to do it.

We send all our love to you. Our thoughts are with you and your family!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Love and hugs and kisses to you both.

We are so sorry to hear about your dad. We just celebrated my dad’s 90th and still treasure the time we have with both our parents. I know he hasn’t been well and like you say, it’s a blessing that he is now in a better place. Hope to talk to you soon.

Our best love to you guys. we are so sorry.
I just read the bio on your Dad. He sounds like he was a good man. I love the picture of you and him together. I guess you've always known what you will look like when you grow older. It's pretty amazing.
We love you Carter and are thinking about you every day. When you come home we will raise a glass in his honor.
xo
Lisa and David

Oh Mary,
Even though we knew this was near, it's still a shock. My heart is with you
and Carter and his whole family.
Carter's father was so lucky to have had such a loving and thoughtful son
and daughter-in-law.
My love and condolences to Carter's family.

Mary & Carter,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. It is very difficult, try to remember the great memories. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Miss you, come home soon!
Love Sharyn

I am so very sorry to hear of your father's passing. We have such sweet memories of him and I will never forget him. Hope you are doing well during this very sad day. Hugs to you. Please hug your sweet mom for me also. My heart is breaking for her now. We will be in touch. I will be In Tucson on Monday afternoon, so if there is ANYTHING I can do for you there, please call. We love you all and our thoughts and prayers are with you now. Jane

We wanted to write to express our great sorrow at the passing of your dad. Col. Newton was a man who always reached out to others - he helped our family in so many ways. He was a man who we looked up to because of his work, his humor, his passion for life and his kindness. We'll truly miss him, and our hearts are with you now. We our sending our love to Mrs. Newton, Kim and Barry too.We love you,Lisa, Chris & Holden

Oh Mary I am so sorry! Give Carter a big hug! Let me know if i can do anything at all. How long will you stay there? Hope his Mom is ok! I am sure everyone knows he is finally out of pain and peacful at last. We love you guys. Connie and Steve

Carter,
Sorry to hear about your father. It sounds like he a had a full and wonderful life. You will always have great memories of him and your time time together. Boomer is doing well, sort of like a young kid away from home for the first time. He didn't completely know why is wasn't welcome on our bed but eventually joined Brady and Bear on their dog beds. Great having him.
Marvin

Mary and Carter,
I am so sorry to hear about Carter's dad. My prayers and thoughts are with you
both. I know that your faith and strength will help you get through this very
sad time.
Love you both, Marilyn

Heard about your Dad. Sorry to hear of his passing my friend. I only
met him once but I liked him and your Mom very much. Great American and a
true hero. Condolences to your Mom, Kim and Barry.
Best,
Michael